A Cumbria Police spokeswoman said: "The Mercedes estate did set on fire, but all the occupants were pulled free by members of the public.

"It was their quick reaction that ensured those involved were taken to safety prior to car igniting.

"The occupants of the Mercedes are from the Southampton area. The driver, a man aged 43 has been take to Royal Victoria Hospital, Newcastle by air ambulance with serious, potentially life threatening injuries.

"The front seat passenger, a woman, aged 43, has also been taken to Royal Victoria Hospital, by Air Ambulance, with serious but not life threatening injuries.

"Three children, all in their teens, were also in the vehicle, all of which were pulled to safety. Two were taken to Carlisle Infirmary with minor injuries. One has been taken by Air Ambulance to Royal Victoria Hospital, in a more serious condition but not life threatening."

The other vehicle, a Ford Range pickup, was driven by a woman, aged 61 from Sheffield. She was taken to Carlisle Infirmary with minor injuries.